Q: Our City is always busy with new programs, projects and amenities to even further enhance the high quality of life our residents enjoy. Out of all of the current projects, which one has you the most excited?
That is a tough one. We recently welcomed the community to the new inclusive play area at Canyon Country Park; work continues at the site of the new Santa Clarita Valley Sheriff's Station; Old Town Newhall is busy every night of the week offering arts and culture - but I would have to say I am really looking forward to the completion of the new Canyon Country Community Center. This project has been in the planning phases for years and over the past year, we have completed the first phase of construction. This means that work is now getting underway on the actual community center building. Over the next year, the physical building will take shape, getting us that much closer to welcoming the community to the new center for classes, activities, special programming and opportunities to socialize. It will feature a gymnasium, classrooms, training kitchen, community gathering areas, a playground and an outdoor event space. We look forward to opening the doors to the new Canyon Country Community Center in 2020.


Q: There is a lot of buzz about this year's 'One Story One City' program at the Santa Clarita Public Library. Tell us about this year's program.
One Story One City is a much-anticipated annual event. The community is invited to all read the same book and then come together for a variety of events, crafts, cooking demonstrations, performances, discussions and even an author talk. This year's book is "Gods of Jade and Shadow" by Silvia Moreno-Garcia. This historical fantasy follows a young woman in 1920s Mexico who stumbles upon a Mayan god of death, freeing him and embarking on a magical journey. This story is as compelling and mystical as it sounds. What is most intriguing is the author's descriptions of the Jazz Age and art deco architecture, which are both present throughout the story. Visit your Santa Clarita Public Library Branch to check out a copy and then visit Santaclaritalibrary.com for a full schedule of events.


Q: It seems like we just started out the New Year - but when should teens start applying for summer jobs with the city?
Now is the time! We are already accepting applications for summer lifeguards and Camp Clarita counselors. In fact, the deadline for lifeguard applications and the last day for tryouts is March 7. This is an excellent opportunity to be part of the city organization and spend the summer working at one of our city's amazing aquatic facilities, including the always-popular Aquatic Center offering three pools, a water slide and a variety of events and activities. Applicants must be 16 years old by June 1, 2020. To get more information visit Santa-clarita.com/aquatics. Applications are also currently being accepted for Camp Clarita staffers. Camp Clarita is a day camp experience that provides campers with a fun and adventurous environment. Camps are designed to include age-appropriate recreational activities that foster creativity, growth and development such as games, crafts, music, drama, swimming, field trips and more! The application deadline is April 5, 2020, and interviews will be held in May. Please visit the City's Human Resources website for more information.